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ANI, The GHOST CITY in Eastern Turkey by Arman Tadevosyan

SACRED SITEThe sacredness of the city of Ani is partly because the Armenian culture was the first to convert to Christianity. Subsequently they invented the form of architecture which we now call Gothic to celebrate their new religion. The protection of the region around Ani is important because of the role the area has played historically. It seems that the city of Ani was probably the most important city in the world 1000 years ago.

By the 11th century the population of Ani was between 100,000 and 200,000 people of many faiths. Its wealth and renown was such that it was known as "the city of a thousand and one churches." Now on the Turkish side of the border with Armenia, Ani nevertheless needs to be protected regardless of whose jurisdiction it falls under. Earthquakes in 1319, 1832, and 1988, Army Target practice and general neglect all have had devastating effects on the architecture of the city. The city of Ani is a sacred place which needs ongoing protection.

Ani, the medieval capital of Armenia, which is now on the Turkish side of the border that divides the two countries. Animosity between the two counties has resulted in the near destruction of the magnificent and distinctive architecture. In 2004, visitors to the medieval city found the site has been well cared for and made secure.

"A people which is cut off from its own past is far less free to choose and to act as a people than one which has been able to situate itself in history. This is why - and this is the only reason why - the entire art of the past has now become a political issue" - John Berger, "Ways of Seeing"